Ruffa Gutierrez thanks Mother Lily Monteverde for 'the beautiful life we live now'

Ruffa Gutierrez thanked the late Lily Monteverde for taking care of her and her family through the years.

In an Instagram tribute, the actress and beauty queen said that she had known Mother Lily for 39 years. The first time they met was in the US in 1985, “when she was convincing my Dad to make a movie comeback. My Dad said yes and the rest is history!”

“Mother, thank you for being instrumental in the beautiful life we live now,” Ruffa said. “We would not have moved back to the Philippines if it weren’t for you."

“Thank you for giving me opportunities to grow & develop my skills as an actress, for taking care of me as a Regal Baby, for being a second mother to me during my growing years.”

Ruffa added that the late film producer flew to South Africa in 1993 with her parents Eddie Gutierrez and Annabelle Rama and showbiz columnist Alfie Lorenzo to support her as she competed in the 43rd Miss World beauty pageant.

“You were always there for me through ups and downs,” Ruffa said. “I love you, Mother. The Gutierrez family loves you. Rest easy in paradise with Father."

“Your legacy lives on, a testament to a life well-lived," she added.

Mother Lily died on August 4. She was 84 years old.

Monteverde helmed Regal Entertainment for several decades and produced many blockbusters, including the iconic "Mano Po" films.

The memorial service for Mother Lily will be held at 38 Valencia Events Place in Quezon City. She will be interred on Saturday, August 10, at The Heritage Park in Taguig City.

Tributes from actors like Judy Ann Santos, Iza Calzado, Rufa Mae Quinto, Snooky Serna, Alma Moreno, Donita Rose, and many more poured in for Mother Lily.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by RUFFA GUTIERREZ (@iloveruffag)

—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News